Solihull doctor runs New York Marathon

On Sunday 4th November, Dr Bradley Allen, a local junior doctor working at Solihull Hospital, will run the 26.2-mile-long New York Marathon in aid of the West Midlands Central Accident, Resuscitation and Emergency Team.

The West Midlands CARE Team is a charity that supports the work of the local ambulance service, sending out volunteer doctors, nurses and paramedics to provide emergency pre-hospital care. All members of the team volunteer their time for free, whilst continuing to uphold work within the NHS in their day jobs.

Dr Allen, currently working towards a career in anaesthetics and intensive care, first came across the WM CARE Team while working with Immediate Care Medical Services Ltd, a Birmingham based first aid training and medical cover company.
Since then, he’s admired the work the voluntary immediate care scheme carries out in the West Midlands, recognising the effort they put in to providing essential emergency care to the public while supporting the NHS. He hopes to one day join the team in delivering expert care to those in need. To help the charity raise money towards the cost of equipment, medicine and petrol, he is taking on an impressive physical challenge: The New York Marathon.

Dr Allen commented; “Supporting the CARE team whilst I do this will make it easier for me mentally and give me a bit more strength to carry on when it gets tough; moreover, it will help to support the team who provide immediate care which saves our lives.”

“I want to continue to push myself to my physical and mental limits which are such a rewarding experience.”

After entering the public ballot, he discovered on his birthday that, on his first attempt, he was successful and is now looking forward to the unforgettable experience.

In preparation for the challenge, Dr Allen has been training, despite suffering from a knee injury from May until August. He is an enthusiastic runner with previous races and marathons under his belt though and, whilst he may not be aiming to break personal records, he will be ready to throw himself into the experience.

Matthew Boylan, Clinical Director at the West Midlands CARE Team, commented; “It’s inspirational to see Dr Allen take on such a challenge to support the work we do. We wish him all the best and are grateful for the support.”